Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Additional Information
Affiliations
Accomplishments
Timeline
Generic

John Kapalcik

DeLand,FL

Summary

Senior Research Chemist with expertise in Six Sigma methodologies, enhancing product quality and optimizing processes at Sparton Defense Electronics. Demonstrated success in developing innovative chemical formulations and mentoring teams, leading to improved efficiency and regulatory compliance. Skilled in vendor evaluation and analytical testing, achieving cost reductions and operational excellence. Proficient in process optimization, project management, and data analysis, ensuring effective workflows and operational success. Dependable employee with top strengths in cleaning, multitasking and stock management. Focused on working quickly, efficiently, and diligently to meet all needs. Desiring a permanent position with room for growth.

Overview

41
41
years of professional experience

Work History

Sr. Research Chemist

Sparton Defense Electronics Subsidiary of Elbit
12.1998 - 12.2024
  • Played a key role in developing the organization''s intellectual property portfolio related to the main product, that being Sonobuoys, an extremely sensitive sonar device dropped in the ocean to listen for enemy submarines by creating increasingly sensitive sonar reflections This sensitivity was a result of creating sensitive formulations that reacted specifically to various chemistries within the cured polyurethanes. My duties involved the preparations of various patent applications for novel classified compounds and chemical innovations that then went on to being tested by the Naval Research Labs prior to being applied to submarines.
  • Presented findings at industry conferences, enhancing the organization''s reputation as a leader in cutting-edge research.
  • Improved quality control measures by developing and implementing rigorous testing protocols that led to more consistent results.
  • Mentored junior chemists and provided guidance on their projects, fostering professional growth and improving team performance.
  • Increased efficiency in research projects by streamlining laboratory procedures and implementing innovative techniques.
  • Evaluated potential vendors for raw materials procurement, selecting high-quality suppliers while reducing costs for the company.

ASW Polyurethane Compounder

Biwax Corporation
08.1995 - 10.1998
  • Demonstrated attention to detail while measuring out precise quantities of raw materials, ensuring successful batch outcomes.
  • Communicated with clients regarding complex job orders to maximize clarity and work instructions.
  • Exceeded production goals by implementing process improvements and streamlining workflow efficiency within the compounding department.

Staff Chemist

Sparton Defense Electronics-Div. of Elbit Corp.
06.1989 - 03.1995
  • Performed technical laboratory functions in compliance with regulatory agencies and safety requirements.
  • Established quality control measures for instrumentation and monitored data quality to operate instrument with control limits.
  • Enhanced product quality by developing and optimizing chemical processes and procedures.
  • Coordinated and performed analytical tests to comply with established standards and specifications.

Jr. Tire Compounder

Firestone Tire & Rubber Co.
12.1983 - 02.1989
  • Assembled and disassembled all tools and equipment required for batch-making process according to safety, GMP, quality and sanitation standards. These raw materials were used by Sr. compounders in assembling tires with improved performance.
  • Managed inventory levels of raw materials to prevent stockouts or excessive storage costs, maintaining efficient operations.
  • Achieved quality metrix according to goals while exceeding production targets by significant measures.
  • Returned raw materials to inventory with correct quantity and information listed on containers.

Education

Master of Science - Industrial Chemistry

University of Central Florida
Orlando, FL
01-1995

Bachelor of Science - Chemistry

University of Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh, PA
12-1983

Skills

  • Six Sigma Black Belt
  • Root cause analysis
  • Regulatory compliance
  • Analytical testing
  • Chemical formulation
  • Vendor evaluation
  • Data analysis
  • Technical writing
  • Process improvement
  • Kaizen methodology
  • Cost reduction

Additional Information

I have decided to avoid retirement and instead continue my long career of military and commercial chemical R&D and process control. After working 42 years on many newly proposed products, their appropriate materials as well as the most qualified suppliers of those materials. The other side of the job was determining whether the requested devices could be manufactured in DeLeon Springs with a high level of process control and the associated verification. On December 7, 2023 my employment with Sparton Corporation unfortunate;y came to a halt due to an unforeseen delay due to extensive supply chain issues in Design Engineering and a simultaneous increase in competition in the Sonobuoy business. Many of us were forced to leave at the same time and I presume on the same terms. Apparently it has. it is somewhat surreal considering the amount of work I put into Sparton over the decades. I can provide multiple references from both current and past Management and Engineering personnel on all levels if requested. Many of them are still there. Mr. Pete Yaciw, Engineering Program Manager, had worked in DeLeon Springs since 1983 and retired recently. He was my supervisor for almost 2 decades. Over 3 decades, I did not receive one quarterly or yearly evaluation that reflected less than above average performance. I believe my past experiences makes me a strong candidate for the newly generated "CI Technician" position, and I whole-heartedly ask that I be strongly considered for the position.

Affiliations

  • Volunteer at CFLAR, Big Cat Sanctuary, St. Cloud, Fla.
  • Skydiving when weight permits.
  • Travel to Ukraine each year to visit family..

Accomplishments

  • Six Sigma Green Belt (2012)
  • Six Sigma Black Be (2015)
  • Sigma Pi Honor Society (1984)
  • Member American Chemical Society (1990-Current)

Timeline

Sr. Research Chemist

Sparton Defense Electronics Subsidiary of Elbit
12.1998 - 12.2024

ASW Polyurethane Compounder

Biwax Corporation
08.1995 - 10.1998

Staff Chemist

Sparton Defense Electronics-Div. of Elbit Corp.
06.1989 - 03.1995

Jr. Tire Compounder

Firestone Tire & Rubber Co.
12.1983 - 02.1989

Master of Science - Industrial Chemistry

University of Central Florida

Bachelor of Science - Chemistry

University of Pittsburgh
John Kapalcik